The Most Idyllic Beach Resorts in Malaysia for a Luxurious Hideaway

With easing of travel restrictions in Malaysia, there’s no better way to cool off from the scorching sun than an indulgent vacation where you can feel the warm sand under your feet and the soothing sound of waves crashing. Situated by the beach, Malaysia’s scenic resorts are waiting to spoil you with luxury spa treatments, adventurous scuba diving sanctuaries, and a wide range of recreational activities. Here are some of the most idyllic beach resorts in Malaysia that you simply can’t miss out on.

 

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

 

Recharging, realigning, and reigniting that spark – romantic getaways are a must from time to time. Tucked away within a UNESCO World Geopark, Four Seasons Resort Langkawi is a romantic hotspot, set against the serene backdrop of a tropical rainforest, limestone cliffs, and the mesmerising Andaman Sea. Lounge in quiet pavilions and villas offering gorgeous treetop views, or head to the Geo Spa to indulge in the resort’s connective Raja & Ratu couple’s ritual. For adventure seekers, there’s much to do, from hidden waterfalls, limestone outcrops, mangrove safaris and the world’s steepest cable (suspended 660 metres above sea level).

 

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi is located at Jalan Tanjung Rhu, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia, p. +60 4-950 8888.

 

Berjaya Langkawi Resort

Photo courtesy of Berjaya Langkawi Resort

 

A charming hidden gem amidst a lush tropical rainforest, Berjaya Langkawi Resort is a 5-star beachfront hotel. Whether you’re choosing the bedroom suites or opting for the floating villas, the emerald water of the Andaman Sea is just steps away from your sheltered haven. Get out of bed and plunge straight into the semi-outdoor lounge & jacuzzi for a relaxing morning by the sea. Then, step out and explore what nature has to offer. Vacation days here are never dull with sea activities like ziplining at the Seven Wells Waterfalls or exploring Langkawi’s islands with island-hopping tours on jet skis. 

 

Berjaya Langkawi Resort is located at Karung Berkunci 200 Burau Bay, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia, p. + 60 4-959 1888.

 

The Taaras Resort

Photo courtesy of The Taaras Resort

 

Transcend to a state of bliss at The Taaras Resort, located off the coast of the Redang Island. Here, you can soak up the most spectacular views of the crystal clear waters of the South China Sea, and the green forests that surround it. In the day, take a dip into the sea and explore the region’s most colourful coral reefs and marine life at more than 30 dive locations around the island, or embark on a Glass Bottom Boat Reef Tour. At night, get a taste of Asian hospitality as you enjoy a secluded 6-course private dinner on the beach’s powdery white sands.

 

The Taaras Resort is located at Peti Surat 126, Main Post Office, 20928 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia, p. +60 9-630 8888.

 

Mabul Water Bungalows Resort

Photo courtesy of Mabul Water Bungalows Resort

 

Skip that expensive five-hour flight to the Maldives and head down to Mabul Water Bungalows Resort for a postcard-perfect taste of sun, sand, and sea. Overlooking the Sipadan Island (a mere 15-minute speedboat ride away), you’ll find wooden-type water bungalows floating atop of pristine turquoise waters. Take scuba diving trips at nearby islands, go for a kayaking adventure, or stay in and play beach volleyball and table tennis on the premises. End your relaxing day sipping on cocktails and dining while overlooking the sunset.

 

Mabul Water Bungalows Resort is located at Lot A-1-G, Block A, Signature Office, KK Times Square, Off Coastal Highway, Kota Kinabalu, 88100, Sabah, Malaysia, p +60 88-230 006.  

 

Sea Horizon Resort

Photo courtesy of Sea Horizon Resort

 

Nestled in the beautiful fishing village of Sedili Besar, Sea Horizon Resort is Malaysia’s first cliffside glamping spot, built above a cliffside overlooking the South China Sea. Think nature meets modern luxury as you stay in a tranquil secluded tent-like room ( but don’t worry, its air-conditioned!). Leave behind the worries of your hectic life as you fall asleep stargazing at the milky way, and wake up to a scarlet-hued sunrise with unobstructed panoramic sea views. For activities, challenge yourself by going on a rope course on water, driving quad-bikes on tropical terrains, or paragliding over the vast plantations surrounding the landscape.

 

Sea Horizon Resort is located at Lot 901, Kuala Sedili Besar, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia, p. +60 16-720 0399.

 

Pangkor Laut Resort

Photo courtesy of YTL Hotels

 

How does a private island surrounded by white sandy beaches and clear waters sound? Located along the Straits of Malacca, Pangkor Laut Resort is the only resort on the 300-acres-wide island. A paradise perfect for a beach hideaway, you can indulge in a romantic retreat filled with seaside dining, relaxing flower baths, and spa days. Embark on an oceanic journey in style in luxurious private yachts, or take up a culinary challenge by learning the executive chef’s culinary techniques and the art of Southeast Asian cooking with The Chef’s Kitchen Experience.

 

Pangkor Laut Resort is located at Pangkor Laut Island, 32200 Lumut, Perak, Malaysia, p. +60 5-699 1100.

 

Japamala Resort by Samadhi

Photo courtesy of Japamala Resort

 

A rustic eco-luxe resort on the tiny Tioman Island, Japamala Resort is an intimate boutique resort home to just 13 chalets and villas, engulfed amidst 11 acres of lush tropical rainforest. The highlight here is undoubtedly leisure scuba diving at the Tioman Island and its archipelago, home to a diverse range of aquatic life, colourful underwater gardens and corals, and jungle treks and trails. Sit back and take in the sunset from an elevated vantage point just ten minutes’ walk from the resort, as servers serve you cocktails, wine, champagne and so much more.

 

Japamala Resort by Samadhi is located at Kampung Lanting, 26800, Pahang, Malaysia, p. +60 9-419 7777.

 

Gaya Island Resort 

Photo courtesy of Gaya Island Resort

 

Gaya Island Resort is a beachfront resort fringed by mangroves, as well as the sandy coast of Malohom Bay. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature or the local culture, the resort offers a dreamy stay for you. Though you’ll have no shortage of sea activities and wildlife experiences, an experience not to be missed is the Singgah Singgarung Night. This experience gives resort travellers unique insights into the Borneo way of life through native arts, activities and delicacies in a tribal, campfire-style beach barbecue dinner.

 

Gaya Island Resort is located at Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, p. +60 18-933 1260.

 

Rawa Island Resort

Photo courtesy of Rawa Island Resort

 

Whether you’re looking for a romantic couple’s getaway or a fun-packed vacation with friends, Rawa Island Resort caters to both. For lovers looking to unwind, the resort strategically offers breathtaking views of the South China Sea from the Rawa Spa. Soak in the beauty of nature as you’re pampered through body, facial and foot massages. For friends, take a dip in the warm waters of the sea or unwind amidst the island’s lush greenery.

 

Rawa Island Resort is located at Rawa Island, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia, p. +60 7-799 1204.

 

Batu Batu Resort

Photo courtesy of Batu Batu Resort

 

Doing absolutely nothing but lounging by the beach sounds like our idea of a successful vacation. Batu Batu Resort is set in the coconut groves-ringed privacy and sand beaches of the uninhabited island of Tengah. The rustic retreat is designed to blend into its natural environment, much like the traditional Malaysian ‘kampungs’ or villages. Sip on cocktails and toast to the spectacular view as you spend your lazy vacation exploring the island’s eight private beaches or paddle-boarding in the big blue sea. Or make your vacation an educational one, as you learn about the island’s fragile ecosystems and wildlife from on-site biologists.

 

Batu Batu Resort is located at Pulau Tengah, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia, p. +60 17-755 2770.

 

BuBu Beach Resort

Photo courtesy of BuBu Beach Resort

 

Get ready to gear up with your snorkel mask and goggles, as snorkelling and diving are simply a must at BuBu Beach Resort. The Perhentian island is rich with incredible marine life, which is evident when you find yourself surrounded by coral reefs, black-tip reef sharks and sea turtles. When you’ve had enough of water activities, trek along the 30-minute Windmill Trail to enjoy views of the tropical forest and the island’s two windmills. Looking for your private patch of sand? Work up the perfect tan as you picnic on a secluded beach with a bottle of wine.

 

BuBu Beach Resort is located at Long Beach, Perhentian Island Kecil, 22300, Terengganu, Malaysia, 22300 Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia, p. +60 16-260 3547.

 

Immersing in Nature in Malaysia

 

If you’re looking to book a stay at some of these resorts, UOB Cardmembers can enjoy 7% off  on Expedia and up to 10% cashback via Booking.com. For fun activities around your nature retreat, check out Klook for up to 5% off bookings sitewide!

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Top Image: Japamala Resort by Samadhi